asked the Minister for Health the services which are available in each health board area, to assess the validity of allegations of child sexual abuse; the number of children who are on a waiting list in each health board area in respect of whom it is alleged that child sexual abuse has occurred and who are awaiting assessment as to the validity of the allegations made; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers - Child Sexual Abuse.
64.
Cases of alleged child abuse, including child sexual abuse, reported to health boards are dealt with in accordance with the revised Child Abuse Guidelines issued by my Department some months ago. Assessment of cases of alleged child sexual abuse involves an investigation by a multidisciplinary team in each community care area, with support from specialist services, including child psychiatric, paediatric and gynaecology services, as appropriate. As the investigation process commences as soon as cases are reported to the health boards, the boards do not have waiting lists.
I have already announced that I will be allocating special additional funds to the health boards to enable them to improve their present services for the assessment of alleged cases of child sexual abuse. I might add expanded services at the new sexual assault units for children are now functioning at Temple Street and Crumlin Children's Hospital.